Huntington’s Disease and Genetic Testing
This booklet is a good starting point for anyone who is considering genetic testing for HD.
It provides information for people who have been diagnosed with HD or who have a history of HD in their family. It outlines the genetic process (how HD is passed on in families) and also describes the choices available for parents who are concerned about passing on the HD gene to their children.
Genetic testing is not for everybody. Each person has the right to make their own decision and this booklet provides a list of pros and cons for you to consider.
This booklet covers:
– a brief description of HD and its symptoms
– how HD is passed on in families
– the genetics of HD
– genetic testing (either before or after symptoms have started)
– prenatal testing
– health insurance disclosure
– pros and cons of testing.
NB
The information on insurance on page 21 of the booklet is however out of date. See here for separate information on life insurance from 2019-2024.